Current Role: Since 2024, Durde has served as the defensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks.
Durde joined the Seahawks alongside head coach Mike Macdonald. Together, they quickly made an impact, achieving a 10-7 record last season and a remarkable 14-3 this season. Although Seattle did not qualify for the playoffs last year, they recently clinched the NFC West title, marking their first division championship since 2020. This season’s 14 wins also set a new franchise record.
Before this, Durde’s coaching journey took him through four NFL teams starting in 2014, with significant time spent as a defensive line coach for the Dallas Cowboys from 2021 to 2023. His career began as an intern with the Cowboys, and he’s even coached overseas with the London Warriors in the BAFA National Leagues.
Local Connection: Durde isn’t unfamiliar with the Atlanta Falcons. He has worked with them in various roles since 2016, including intern and linebacker coach. Last season, Jeff Ulbrich, who was interim defensive coordinator during Durde’s last season in Atlanta, rejoined the team in the same capacity. His guidance led to a dramatic improvement in the team’s pass rush, moving from near the bottom to the second-best in sacks.
Falcons owner Arthur Blank expressed that he wouldn’t push the new head coach regarding staff decisions but suggested keeping Ulbrich due to the defense’s recent turnaround.
Why He’s a Candidate: Durde’s familiarity with the Falcons and his growing resume make him a strong contender. While with the Cowboys, he led the defense to the playoffs three years in a row, maintaining consistently high rankings. The defense’s lowest rank in yards allowed was 19th during his first season, but they improved significantly during his tenure.
In terms of improving pass rush, the Cowboys ranked 20th in sacks before Durde’s arrival. Under his leadership, they jumped to third and then 13th in subsequent years. A similar trend occurred with the Seahawks, which moved from tied for 11th in sacks to seventh since Durde took charge. Defensively, they also improved drastically, going from 25th in points allowed to first in just two seasons.
Given the Falcons’ desire for a stronger pass rush, Durde could be a valuable asset. They have a young defense featuring promising talent, including two new first-round picks in edge rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., as well as safety Xavier Watts and cornerback Billy Bowman Jr. These players present a great opportunity for Durde to develop and enhance the defense further.
In conclusion, Durde’s record shows he can help defenses thrive, making him a compelling choice for the Falcons as they look to bolster their defensive lineup.
Source link
News,Aden Durde,head coach,Arthur Blank
